The Soccer City stadium, in Soweto just outside Johannesburg. South Africa's biggest stadium has been completely reconstructed to look like a giant 'melting pot'Photograph: Alexander Joe/AFP/Getty Images

The Mbombela stadium in Nelspruit, whose seats are zebra-striped. They have provoked a debate amongst architects. Some say they're in tune with local wishes, other say they're patronisingPhotograph: Handout/AFP/Getty Images

Aerial view of the Moses Mabhida stadium in Durban. Visitors will be able to ride a funicular up to a platform at the top of the arch, although sadly not during matchesPhotograph: Handout/AFP/Getty Images

The Peter Mokaba stadium in Polokwane. A chunky 45,000-seater, the roof is held up by concrete and steel representations of the local, and unmistakable, boabab treePhotograph: Stephane De Sakutin/AFP/Getty Images